Just In: Afenifere Loses National Leader, Fasoranti, At 100

By Omoyeni Ojeifo

The National Leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, a prominent figure in Yoruba politics and Nigeria’s pro-democracy movement, has died at the age of 100.

Announcing his death in a statement on Tuesday, the Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, expressed grief over the loss of the elder statesman.

Aiyedatiwa described the centenarian’s life as one devoted to public service, saying his contributions to Ondo State, Yorubaland and Nigeria would remain part of his legacy.

“With a heavy heart but with total submission to the will of God, I announce the passing of our revered elder statesman, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, who departed this world at the glorious age of 100,” the governor said.

The governor also paid tribute to the late Afenifere leader’s commitment to justice and good governance.

“His counsel, fatherly guidance and principled stand on issues of justice and good governance will be sorely missed. He lived a fulfilled life and left indelible footprints of honour and legacy for generations to come,” Aiyedatiwa said.

The Ondo State Government extended its condolences to the deceased’s family, the people of Akure Kingdom and residents of the state.

Fasoranti was born on May 11, 1926, in Akure, Ondo State. He celebrated his 100th birthday in May 2026, attracting tributes from prominent political leaders.

A teacher by profession, he also played a significant role in Nigeria’s political development and was associated with the progressive political tradition championed by the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

The centenarian served as Commissioner for Finance in the administration of former Ondo State Governor Michael Adekunle Ajasin between 1979 and 1983.

He later became a leading figure in Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, and emerged as its national leader after the death of Pa Abraham Adesanya.

His political legacy was closely linked to advocacy for democracy, restructuring and the protection of Yoruba interests within Nigeria’s federal system.